Everyone's News Updates - Iowa Knights of Columbus2018-03-19T14:28:17Zhttp://iowakofc.org/profiles/blog/feed?xn_auth=noIowa Catholic Conference Newsletter: March 29, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-03-18:6455245:BlogPost:1326932018-03-18T23:16:44.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>The second legislative deadline - called the “second funnel” – was last Friday. Only bills that have passed a committee in both chambers remain eligible, except for budget- and tax-related legislation.</p>
<p><strong>Senate File 359 made it past the deadline.</strong> The bill, passed by the Senate last year, has been on our priority list. It would stop trafficking in fetal body parts which remain following an elective abortion. The bill advanced out of the House Human Resources Committee…</p>
<p>The second legislative deadline - called the “second funnel” – was last Friday. Only bills that have passed a committee in both chambers remain eligible, except for budget- and tax-related legislation.</p>
<p><strong>Senate File 359 made it past the deadline.</strong> The bill, passed by the Senate last year, has been on our priority list. It would stop trafficking in fetal body parts which remain following an elective abortion. The bill advanced out of the House Human Resources Committee last Thursday only after the committee added an amendment to the bill which would prohibit abortions after a baby’s heartbeat can be detected.</p>
<p><strong>Several bills the ICC supported didn’t make it past the funnel deadline, including:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>House File 2405, a bill that would have prevented a “cause of action” that allows a parent to bring a lawsuit against a physician claiming a child should have been aborted because of a disability. The “wrongful birth” claim did not exist in Iowa before it was allowed by the Iowa Supreme Court last summer.</li>
<li>Senate File 2344, a bill which would have clarified that campus student groups, including religious ones, could choose their own leadership. Currently the University of Iowa is in court because it deregistered a group for Christian business students, BLinC, after a student filed a complaint against the group. This bill would protect student groups from a state university requiring them to change their belief system to remain registered.</li>
<li>Senate File 2338, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. This bill was very similar to the federal RFRA law that has been in place since the early 1990’s. It said that government should not substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion unless it can be demonstrated that applying that burden is a compelling government interest and the least restrictive means of furthering that interest. The bill died mainly because of opposition from the business community.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Bills that may be coming up for debate this week include:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>House Joint Resolution 2009. The ICC opposes this proposed amendment to the Iowa Constitution which would subject any restrictions of the right of the people to keep and bear arms to “strict scrutiny.” The ICC recommends opposition because it would have the effect of making future regulation of firearms more difficult and may put current state law regarding background checks and permitting at risk. The amendment would have to pass both chambers this year, and then again next year, before going to a vote of the people of Iowa in 2020. </li>
<li>Senate File 481, the so-called “anti-sanctuary cities” bill. The ICC opposes the bill. Among other provisions, it requires local jails to comply with all requests from ICE (immigration control) to hold immigrants, even when federal law does not require it. People would be held for possible deportation, even for relatively minor offenses, when they otherwise normally would get released. This may cause the separation of families and imposition of a penalty that is out-of-proportion to the wrong that has been done.</li>
<li>Senate File 2311, a bill which eases regulation of public utilities. An amendment passed in the House Commerce Committee last week would cap charges for energy efficiency programs at two percent of a customer’s bill. While that might seem like a good idea, it would also have the effect of reducing financial support for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). This program helps low-income people save on their utility bills by reducing energy usage. Energy efficiency is a relatively inexpensive way to help us address our energy needs while lessening our reliance on fossil fuels. Pope Francis, in his encyclical letter “<a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/leadership/holy-see/francis/pope-francis-encyclical-laudato-si-on-environment.cfm">Laudato Si</a>,” has called us to protect creation and care for our common home.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>You can let legislators know what you think about the above bills by going to</strong> <a href="http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home"><strong>www.votervoice.net/icc/home</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p><strong>We were pleased to see the House unanimously pass Senate File 360 last week</strong>. The bill now goes to the governor. It updates Iowa “Safe Haven” law by allowing parents to surrender a baby up to 30 days old to EMS and other first responders. Currently babies can be surrendered at health care institutions. Mothers are able to give up a child without a criminal charge if they feel they can no longer care for the baby. An estimated 30 babies have been helped through this program since 2001.</p>
<p>U.S. BISHOPS URGE SUPPORT FOR THE ‘FIRST AMENDMENT DEFENSE ACT’</p>
<p>Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Committee for Religious Liberty, and Bishop James D. Conley of Lincoln, chairman of the Subcommittee for the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, gave their strong support for the First Amendment Defense Act, which was recently introduced by Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) in the U.S. Senate: “FADA is a modest and important measure that protects the rights of faith-based organizations and people of all faiths and of no faith who believe that marriage is the union of one man and one woman. For example, in a pluralistic society, faith-based charitable agencies and schools should not be excluded from participation in public life by loss of licenses, accreditation, or tax-exempt status because they hold reasonable views on marriage that differ from the federal government’s view.</p>
<p>“The leadership of the Catholic Church will continue to promote and protect the natural truth of marriage as foundational to the common good. The Church will also continue to stand for the ability of all to exercise their religious beliefs and moral convictions in public life without fear of government discrimination.”</p>
<p> </p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, March 12, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-03-12:6455245:BlogPost:1327622018-03-12T01:42:25.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>The U.S. Congress will decide soon, most likely this week, whether to include the <strong>Conscience Protection Act (CPA) in must-pass government funding legislation</strong>.</p>
<p>Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, and Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, chair of the USCCB’s Committee for Religious Liberty, are urging you to flood Congress with emails and calls asking for enactment of the…</p>
<p>The U.S. Congress will decide soon, most likely this week, whether to include the <strong>Conscience Protection Act (CPA) in must-pass government funding legislation</strong>.</p>
<p>Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, and Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, chair of the USCCB’s Committee for Religious Liberty, are urging you to flood Congress with emails and calls asking for enactment of the Conscience Protection Act as part of the 2018 funding bill and to pray for this outcome. The bill would protect nurses and other health care professionals from being forced to participate in abortions. The bishops’ statement statement can be read <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/NNllTTfKMA6k_IT4V_wJWA">here</a>. </p>
<p>Please email or call your Senators and Representative today and urge them to include the CPA in the FY 2018 appropriations omnibus bill. For those who don’t have access to email, Members of Congress can be reached by calling the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and asking to be connected with your Representative or Senators. <a href="https://www.humanlifeaction.org/action-alert/urge-congress-enact-conscience-protection-act">Click here for the email alert and sample message</a>.</p>
<p>LAST WEEK AT THE STATE CAPITOL</p>
<p>A priority of the Iowa Catholic Conference here in Iowa has been to defeat Senate File 481, the immigration enforcement bill. It <strong>passed the Iowa House Public Safety Committee</strong> last week by a vote of 11-10 and is now eligible for consider by the Iowa House. When/if the bill passes the House, it would return to the Senate for further consideration.</p>
<p>Please contact your member of the Iowa House in opposition to the bill. <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57593/respond">Click here for an explanation of our position on the bill and a sample message to members of the Iowa House</a>. There’s also an interesting opinion piece on the bill, <a href="https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/opinion/columnists/iowa-view/2018/03/08/polk-county-sheriff-explains-his-opposition-sanctuary-cities-bill/408768002/">written by the Polk County Sheriff, on the Des Moines Register’s website</a>.</p>
<p><strong>A bill which would stop “wrongful birth” and “wrongful life” claims</strong>, House File 2405, passed out of subcommittee in the Senate. The ICC supports the bill, which stops parents from bringing lawsuits against physicians claiming a child should have been aborted because of a disability.</p>
<p><strong>Senate File 2344, the campus free speech bill, passed a House subcommittee</strong>. The ICC supports a provision of the bill which would allow campus groups to choose their own leaders. The opposition asserts that state resources (student fees) should not be spent on organizations that “discriminate.” </p>
<p>The ICC <strong>testified in a subcommittee meeting in support of House File 2228</strong>, a tax credit for donations to nonprofit groups which conduct regenerative medicine research with adult stem cells. This would assist the John Paul II Medical Research Institute in Iowa City. There may yet be another subcommittee meeting to discuss the bill.</p>
<p>The ICC is monitoring House File 2456, which will provide for <strong>additional core mental health services</strong> to be funded by the government.</p>
<p>Pope Francis, in his encyclical letter “<a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/leadership/holy-see/francis/pope-francis-encyclical-laudato-si-on-environment.cfm">Laudato Si</a>” has called us to protect creation and care for our common home. Energy efficiency is a relatively inexpensive way to help us address our energy needs while lessening our reliance on fossil fuels.</p>
<p>The ICC is discouraging legislators from undermining energy efficiency policies. Utility customers in Iowa are charged a fee for energy efficiency programs. <strong>Senate File 2311 would make participation in energy efficiency programs optional</strong>, which would likely reduce participation, and therefore reduce the level of investment utilities are required to make in energy efficiency programs. This in turn will reduce financial support for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). This program helps low-income people save on their utility bills. <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57651/respond">Click here for the action alert</a>.</p>
<p>U.S. BISHOPS CALL ON LEADERS TO ADDRESS GUN VIOLENCE</p>
<p>In the aftermath of the tragic attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, Chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, and Bishop George V. Murry, S.J., of Youngstown, Ohio, Chairman of the Committee on Catholic Education, urged national leaders to finally come together and address the crisis of gun violence in a comprehensive way.</p>
<p>The statement reads, in part: “We (also) continue our decades-long advocacy for common-sense gun measures as part of a comprehensive approach to the reduction of violence in society and the protection of life … We must always remember what is at stake as we take actions to safeguard our communities and honor human life. In the words of St. John, ‘let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth (1 Jn. 3:18).’" </p>
<p><strong>Here in Iowa, the ICC opposes state Constitutional amendments that would make the regulation of guns more difficult.</strong> Senate Joint Resolution 2009 and House Joint Resolution 2009 are proposed state Constitutional amendments that would subject any restrictions of the right of the people to keep and bear arms to “strict scrutiny.” The ICC recommends opposition because it would have the effect of making any regulation of firearms difficult and may put current state law regarding background checks and permitting at risk. These amendments would have to pass both chambers this year, and then again next year, before going to a vote of the people of Iowa in 2020. Please send a message to your Senator and Representative in opposition at <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57269/respond">www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57269/respond</a>.</p>The Still Agency is proud to announce our newest professional field agent, Brad Petersontag:iowakofc.org,2018-03-06:6455245:BlogPost:1327442018-03-06T20:18:56.000ZPamela Kae Stillhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/PamelaKaeStill
<p>The Still Agency is proud to announce our newest professional field agent,<strong> Brad Peterson</strong>. Effective March 1st, 2018. Brad will be servicing the councils of Oxford, Victor, Grinnell, Newton, Marengo, Tama/Toledo, and Marshalltown. As a agent Brad meets and advises members regarding the products and services available to them as members. Members who meet with Brad find him knowledgeable and compassionate. He understands the complex situations that Catholic families face…</p>
<p>The Still Agency is proud to announce our newest professional field agent,<strong> Brad Peterson</strong>. Effective March 1st, 2018. Brad will be servicing the councils of Oxford, Victor, Grinnell, Newton, Marengo, Tama/Toledo, and Marshalltown. As a agent Brad meets and advises members regarding the products and services available to them as members. Members who meet with Brad find him knowledgeable and compassionate. He understands the complex situations that Catholic families face today.</p>
<p>Brad joins our team of professional agents servicing Central and Southeast Iowa. We serve over 11,000 plus members and their families every year. We manage 2.1 billion of life protection on the members in the state of Iowa. The Knights of Columbus Insurance is rated A++(Superior) for financial strength by AM Best for 40 consecutive years. Also Knights of Columbus Insurance Named as "World's Most Ethical Company" in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018.</p>
<p>Join us in welcoming Brad<a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/JjEhzw70PyVFWaXH2RrphC02w2fbhrVOxq565oRfDKfTbbnU--pUlpkGxR13mEV4NcOU2qutIerWSBbix79SmHDMg8ftXT8g/Peterson.jpg" target="_self"><img width="250" class="align-right" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/JjEhzw70PyVFWaXH2RrphC02w2fbhrVOxq565oRfDKfTbbnU--pUlpkGxR13mEV4NcOU2qutIerWSBbix79SmHDMg8ftXT8g/Peterson.jpg?width=250"/></a> to the Still Agency team.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Shawn Still</p>
<p>General Agent</p>Still Agency February 2018 Agent of the Monthtag:iowakofc.org,2018-03-06:6455245:BlogPost:1328252018-03-06T20:09:27.000ZPamela Kae Stillhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/PamelaKaeStill
<p><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/JjEhzw70PyW8kD2HlASjmyxPUfNB0Jm0tfLrpOpcQKqvvz0g5XoNzJizs-iqQFUrqnworanhzgDuvxlaqtgKPqXSYHD-UPHU/Jim_pp.jpg" target="_self"><img class="align-right" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/JjEhzw70PyW8kD2HlASjmyxPUfNB0Jm0tfLrpOpcQKqvvz0g5XoNzJizs-iqQFUrqnworanhzgDuvxlaqtgKPqXSYHD-UPHU/Jim_pp.jpg" width="160"></img></a> Field Agent Jim Brockert earns "January 2018 Agent of the Month" for the Still Agency.<br></br> Jim is a dedicated and true professional. By enhancing and protecting his member's financial security he fulfills his mission to Father Michael McGivney's vision of protection to the widows and orphans of his brother Knights.…</p>
<p><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/JjEhzw70PyW8kD2HlASjmyxPUfNB0Jm0tfLrpOpcQKqvvz0g5XoNzJizs-iqQFUrqnworanhzgDuvxlaqtgKPqXSYHD-UPHU/Jim_pp.jpg" target="_self"><img width="160" class="align-right" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/JjEhzw70PyW8kD2HlASjmyxPUfNB0Jm0tfLrpOpcQKqvvz0g5XoNzJizs-iqQFUrqnworanhzgDuvxlaqtgKPqXSYHD-UPHU/Jim_pp.jpg"/></a>Field Agent Jim Brockert earns "January 2018 Agent of the Month" for the Still Agency.<br/> Jim is a dedicated and true professional. By enhancing and protecting his member's financial security he fulfills his mission to Father Michael McGivney's vision of protection to the widows and orphans of his brother Knights. Jim prides himself on helping you, his brother Knights meet their most important financial goals and objectives yet holding true to the Catholic morals and values.</p>2018 State Spelling Bee Winnerstag:iowakofc.org,2018-03-05:6455245:BlogPost:1325902018-03-05T13:39:49.000ZIowa KofC Program Directorhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/ProgramDirectorIAKofC
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Congratulations to the state winners of the </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Iowa Knights of Columbus Spelling Bee!!!</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Spelling Bee was held on Sunday, March 4 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Ames. Pictured with the winners are State Youth Director Rick Jacoby, Jr. …</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Congratulations to the state winners of the </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Iowa Knights of Columbus Spelling Bee!!!</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Spelling Bee was held on Sunday, March 4 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Ames. Pictured with the winners are State Youth Director Rick Jacoby, Jr. </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZE9hwx82w-YpARTgA8xrsPGyP80yOICiZxq9rn5gnnwuuWNUuO9NWyc8EVH80JnG6bmlBIJWpjY5dofv30tMOjfCmJdFVMv*/2018SB4thGrade.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZE9hwx82w-YpARTgA8xrsPGyP80yOICiZxq9rn5gnnwuuWNUuO9NWyc8EVH80JnG6bmlBIJWpjY5dofv30tMOjfCmJdFVMv*/2018SB4thGrade.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>4th Grade</u></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>1st: Kavin Bhurtel, Cedar Rapids</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>2nd: Maya Aalderks, Cedar Falls</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>3rd: Justin Pry, Cascade</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZE9hwx82w-a4r0C4sX7T98Ztj-ZRdWJn8RF9ibuo3-swF0zhKKO0gFaO43O5GdcQepZWpH5LLmtOAExRrp4dV9AYgzmfvsXW/2018SB5thGrade.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZE9hwx82w-a4r0C4sX7T98Ztj-ZRdWJn8RF9ibuo3-swF0zhKKO0gFaO43O5GdcQepZWpH5LLmtOAExRrp4dV9AYgzmfvsXW/2018SB5thGrade.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>5th Grade</u></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>1st: Avinash Ganti, Waukee</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>2nd: Jacob Suresh, West Des Moines</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>3rd: Ruthie Haynes, Cedar Falls</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZE9hwx82w-Z0laMWKBpLTiaL*EeSkjhYx8yVFAs1WDkKuG2rGBnNlg6Pbov0ZggV9EP84yl-Ya*V304zgL68zcjcFujUOo3X/2018SB6thGrade.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZE9hwx82w-Z0laMWKBpLTiaL*EeSkjhYx8yVFAs1WDkKuG2rGBnNlg6Pbov0ZggV9EP84yl-Ya*V304zgL68zcjcFujUOo3X/2018SB6thGrade.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>6th Grade</u></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>1st: Keira Ellerbroek, Cedar Falls (Two-time State Champion)</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>2nd: Grant Putze, Waukee</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>3rd: Haydon Bailey, Kalona</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZE9hwx82w-bl6uTlfMQG35Z2IQG4jdAOZ6Q-UdF2-znUbA9qsrCeqsNZbgtKDNx5FXkQV9GEFuKjPXnqzMdWVIPC3fq6p9Vn/2018SB7thGrade.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ZE9hwx82w-bl6uTlfMQG35Z2IQG4jdAOZ6Q-UdF2-znUbA9qsrCeqsNZbgtKDNx5FXkQV9GEFuKjPXnqzMdWVIPC3fq6p9Vn/2018SB7thGrade.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>7th Grade</u></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>1st: Leo Friedman, Newton</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>2nd: Alivia Poock, Kalona</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>3rd: Owen Muhs, Newton</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, March 5, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-03-05:6455245:BlogPost:1326592018-03-05T03:46:46.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p> IMMIGRATION ISSUES</p>
<p>Thanks to those of you who were able to call Congress in support of Dreamers. More than 48,000 calls were made to the DC offices of U.S. Senators and Representatives. Also last week, the U.S. Supreme Court declined the government's request to hear its “appeal before judgment” on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) cases. <strong>This means that DACA renewals remain available to those who currently have DACA status</strong>. Otherwise young persons with…</p>
<p> IMMIGRATION ISSUES</p>
<p>Thanks to those of you who were able to call Congress in support of Dreamers. More than 48,000 calls were made to the DC offices of U.S. Senators and Representatives. Also last week, the U.S. Supreme Court declined the government's request to hear its “appeal before judgment” on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) cases. <strong>This means that DACA renewals remain available to those who currently have DACA status</strong>. Otherwise young persons with DACA status could be deported because they here without papers.</p>
<p>Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin, Chairman of the Committee on Migration, said:</p>
<p>“Monday’s Supreme Court decision does not reduce the urgency of finding an immediate legislative solution for Dreamers, people who were brought to the United States as children and have known only our country as their home … My brother Bishops and I continue to call upon Congress to work towards a bipartisan and humane solution as soon as possible."</p>
<p>Back here in Iowa, the Iowa Catholic Conference is working in opposition to Senate File 481, an immigration enforcement bill. SF 481 requires local jails to comply with all requests from ICE (immigration control) to hold immigrants, even when federal law does not require it. People would be held for deportation, possibly for relatively minor offenses, when they normally would get released. This may cause the separation of families and imposition of a penalty that is out-of-proportion to the wrong that has been done.</p>
<p><a href="https://votervoice.net/ICC/Campaigns/56531/Respond"><strong>Click here to see if your Representative is a member of the House Public Safety Committee and, if so, send them a message in opposition to the bill</strong></a>.</p>
<p>There are reports about the bill being amended in the House Public Safety Committee this week. That could be a good thing. We’ll keep you posted.</p>
<p>LAST WEEK AT THE STATE CAPITOL</p>
<p>House File 2405 passed the Iowa House by a vote of 59-40 and moved to the Senate Judiciary Committee. <strong>The ICC supports the bill, which stops parents from bringing lawsuits against physicians claiming a child should have been aborted because of a disability</strong>. The bill is in response to last summer’s Iowa Supreme Court decision which allowed these claims for the first time. The bill does not protect doctors who are grossly negligent in providing care.</p>
<p>Senate File 2281 has passed the Senate by a vote of 30-20. The bill would stop abortions after the heartbeat of the baby can be detected. The bill now moves to the House. The ICC supports <strong>the life-affirming intent of the bill</strong> and we appreciate legislators for their efforts to advance the protection of unborn children. We are helping with efforts aimed at resolving questions regarding the bill’s constitutionality.</p>
<p>As you recall, last week we reported on Senate File 2383, a bill to cut taxes in Iowa by more than a billion dollars. The Senate passed the bill on Wednesday by a vote of 29-21. The bill also includes a $1 million increase in the STO credit. <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/2018/02/icc-comments-on-senate-file-2383-the-iowa-working-families-tax-relief-act/"><strong>We expressed our concerns about whether this bill</strong></a> will allow adequate revenues for public education, Medicaid, public safety, a strong safety net, and other acts of government essential to the common good.</p>
<p>In the Iowa House, leaders have decided to work off of the governor’s tax reform bill, House Study Bill 671. It passed out of subcommittee Thursday. The chair of the subcommittee, Rep. Peter Cownie (R-West Des Moines), reported that the House Ways and Means Committee would not take action on the bill for a couple of weeks.</p>
<p>HSB 671 is significantly different than the Senate bill. HSB 671 would cut taxes by $1.7 billion over five years. After an initial tax cut, future cuts would only take place if state revenues do not fall below certain levels. The bill does not address corporate tax rates or tax credits. A greater share of taxes paid will be shifted from the income tax to the sales tax, which typically falls more heavily on lower-income people. <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/2018/03/icc-comment-on-house-tax-reform-bill-hsb-671/">Here’s some information we provided legislators about the bill</a>.</p>
<p>The House bill does not contain an increase in the STO tax credits. However, the Senate and House will be negotiating on these provisions during the next several weeks.</p>
<p>The “free speech on college campuses” bill, Senate File 2344, passed the Senate along party lines last week by a vote of 29-20. The bill requires the Board of Regents and the boards of directors of the community colleges to adopt policies regarding free speech on campuses.</p>
<p>The ICC is working in <strong>support of a provision of the bill that allows student religious groups on state university campuses to choose their own leadership</strong>. Currently the University of Iowa is in court because it deregistered a group for Christian business students, BLinC, after a student filed a complaint against the group. This bill would protect all student belief-based groups from a state university asking them to change their belief system to remain registered.</p>
<p>House File 2448, a bill to enable sports betting in Iowa when federal law allows, advanced out of a subcommittee. <strong>The Catholic bishops of Iowa opposes attempts to increase the kinds of gambling allowed in the state</strong>. The Church recognizes that gambling can be a legitimate recreational activity in an atmosphere of moderation and control.</p>
<p>House File 2456 is intended to <strong>increase the availability of government-funded mental health services in Iowa</strong>. A key provision of the bill defines the following as core services to be funded, primarily by Medicaid:</p>
<ul>
<li>Twenty-two assertive community treatment teams</li>
<li>Six access centers</li>
<li>Intensive residential service homes that provide services to up to 120 persons</li>
</ul>
<p>The bill passed the House unanimously on Thursday. </p>
<p>ENCOURAGE HHS TO PROTECT CONSCIENCE RIGHTS</p>
<p>Conscience protection is a civil right guaranteed by numerous federal laws that too often haven't been enforced. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is taking administrative action through a proposed rule to ensure that these laws are enforced. The U.S. Catholic bishops’ pro-life arm, Human Life Action, is urging you to convey your support to HHS for their action by submitting comments in support of the proposed rule. <a href="https://www.humanlifeaction.org/action-alert/support-conscience-protection-regulation">For more details please click here</a>.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>Photos from our annual Iowa Catholic Conference Legislative Breakfast at the State Capitol are available on our Facebook page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/iowacatholicconference">www.facebook.com/iowacatholicconference</a>. Following the breakfast, the bishops met with Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg and several legislative leaders. Among the topics addressed were pro-life issues, school choice, gun control and immigration.</p>
<p><a href="https://votervoice.net/ICC/Campaigns">Click here to check out our current action alerts</a>.</p>
<p> </p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, Feb. 26, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-26:6455245:BlogPost:1325732018-02-26T03:05:05.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p><strong>First, a reminder.</strong> Monday, Feb. 26, is the U.S. bishops’ national Call-in Day for Dreamers. You are asked to contact your members of Congress to help the nearly 1.8 million “Dreamers,” who are young people without papers brought into the United States by their parents as children. They may face deportation proceedings as soon as March 6 unless Congress reaches a bi-partisan deal to protect them.</p>
<p>It’s easy to help. Please call 855-589-5698 to reach the Capitol…</p>
<p><strong>First, a reminder.</strong> Monday, Feb. 26, is the U.S. bishops’ national Call-in Day for Dreamers. You are asked to contact your members of Congress to help the nearly 1.8 million “Dreamers,” who are young people without papers brought into the United States by their parents as children. They may face deportation proceedings as soon as March 6 unless Congress reaches a bi-partisan deal to protect them.</p>
<p>It’s easy to help. Please call 855-589-5698 to reach the Capitol switchboard. You will then receive instructions. For more information go to <a href="https://justiceforimmigrants.org/action-alerts/national-call-day-congress-support-dreamers/">justiceforimmigrants.org/action-alerts/national-call-day-congress-support-dreamers/</a>.</p>
<p><strong>With the first legislative deadline behind us</strong>, the Iowa House and Senate spent most of last week in floor debate and sending bills over to the other chamber.</p>
<p>One such bill was Senate File 2113, which would require teachers to obtain one hour of suicide prevention training before license renewal. The ICC supports the bill. The Senate passed the bill unanimously 48-0.</p>
<p><strong>Senate Republican leaders have introduced Senate File 2383, which proposes a set of wide-ranging and complex changes to Iowa’s tax code.</strong> The bill was introduced Wednesday and passed out of the Senate Ways and Means Committee along party lines late Thursday afternoon. A fiscal note by the state's nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency on the bill’s impact has not yet been issued.</p>
<p>The Iowa Catholic Conference offered some comments to the Committee regarding basic principles of taxation and a few specific policies found in the bill.</p>
<ul>
<li>Proponents say taxes in Iowa would be lowered by more than $1 billion. Will this allow adequate revenues for public education, Medicaid, public safety, a strong safety net, and other acts of government essential to the common good?</li>
<li>SF 2383 increases tax rates for the lowest income people while decreasing rates for higher income people. The ICC appreciates that the bill leaves the Earned Income Tax Credit for low-income working Iowans untouched. Combined with the effect of the new federal standard deduction, which protects additional income from taxes, we are asking if this bill will result in the lowest-income Iowans paying more taxes. No tax reform proposal would be acceptable that increases taxes for families struggling to meet their daily needs in order to finance cuts for higher-income people.</li>
<li>Senate File 2383 provides for a $1 million increase in the amount of tax credits for School Tuition Organizations to help raise money for scholarships for lower-income children to attend a nonpublic school. It also increases the number of families who are eligible for scholarships by increasing the limit on family income from 300 percent of the federal poverty level to 400 percent. </li>
</ul>
<p>To see the bishops’ basic principles on taxation, as well as opportunity to contact your Senator, go to <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57271/respond">www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57271/respond</a>.</p>
<p><strong>The Iowa Catholic Conference opposes state Constitutional amendments that would make the regulation of guns more difficult.</strong></p>
<p>Senate Joint Resolution 2009 and House Joint Resolution 2009 are proposed state Constitutional amendments that would subject any restrictions of the right of the people to keep and bear arms to “strict scrutiny.” The ICC recommends opposition because it would have the effect of making any regulation of firearms difficult and may put current state law regarding background checks and permitting at risk. These amendments would have to pass both chambers this year, and then again next year, before going to a vote of the people of Iowa in 2020.</p>
<p>The Catholic bishops of the United States have been a consistent advocate of reasonable regulation of firearms for many years. The Church recognizes that recourse to self-defense is legitimate but also that guns are simply too easily accessible.</p>
<p>Please send a message to your Senator and Representative in opposition to SJR 2009 and HJR 2009 at <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57269/respond">www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57269/respond</a>.</p>
<p>We also have information on our website regarding <strong>Senate File 2311, which makes many changes in the regulation of utilities</strong>. So far, the bill has passed the Senate Commerce Committee and is eligible for consideration on the Senate floor.</p>
<p>Our interest in the bill is related to the Church’s teaching on the protection and care of our common home, as found in Pope Francis’ encyclical letter “Laudato Si.” Energy efficiency is a relatively inexpensive way to help us address our energy needs while lessening our reliance on fossil fuels.</p>
<p>Utility customers are charged a fee for energy efficiency programs. SF 2311 would make participation in energy efficiency programs optional, which would likely reduce participation, and therefore reduce the level of investment utilities are required to make in energy efficiency programs. Is now is the time to pull back on the commitments that have been made to lessen our reliance on fossil fuels?</p>
<p>The changes would also reduce financial support for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). WAP reduces the heating and cooling costs for low income persons, particularly the elderly, disabled, and children, by improving the energy efficiency of their homes, thereby reducing the households’ energy bills.</p>
<p>Go to <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57267/respond">www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/57267/respond</a> for more information on this issue.</p>
<p><strong>Now is a good time to contact your state legislators on other issues we’re working on at</strong> <a href="http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home"><strong>www.votervoice.net/icc/home</strong></a>. You can put in your address to target your legislator. These issues include:</p>
<ul>
<li>House File 2405 – forbids parents from bringing lawsuits against physicians claiming a child should have been aborted because of a disability (ICC supports)</li>
<li>House File 2448 – legalization of sports betting (ICC opposes)</li>
<li>Senate File 2338 – Religious Freedom Restoration Act (ICC supports)</li>
<li>Senate File 2344 – free speech on campus (ICC supports provision allowing campus religious groups to choose their own leadership)</li>
</ul>
<p>Individual action alerts on these bills will be added as necessary.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>We would appreciate your prayers for our bishops and legislators as they get together for the annual ICC Legislative Breakfast on Tuesday at the State Capitol. It’s an informal way for the bishops and our board and committee members to talk issues with legislators. <br/></p>
<p> </p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter: First legislative deadline report, Feb. 19, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-19:6455245:BlogPost:1322922018-02-19T14:57:47.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>The first legislative “funnel” deadline was last Friday. That means any bill that has not passed out of a committee by now is, in theory, dead for the session, with the exception of budget and tax bills. However, nothing is dead for certain until the legislature adjourns.</p>
<p><strong>Here’s some updates on issues of concern …</strong></p>
<p>The Iowa Catholic Conference has been working for many years on legislation to help parents be able to afford the most appropriate education for…</p>
<p>The first legislative “funnel” deadline was last Friday. That means any bill that has not passed out of a committee by now is, in theory, dead for the session, with the exception of budget and tax bills. However, nothing is dead for certain until the legislature adjourns.</p>
<p><strong>Here’s some updates on issues of concern …</strong></p>
<p>The Iowa Catholic Conference has been working for many years on legislation to help parents be able to afford the most appropriate education for their children. <strong>House Study Bill 651, the Education Savings Account bill, passed out of a House subcommittee on Tuesday but failed to get out of the full Education Committee later in the week</strong>. We appreciate that so many of you contacted your legislator in support of the bill.</p>
<p>The good news is that there is still time in the session for the House and Senate to pass meaningful school choice legislation. We will keep you informed about our progress and most likely will be asking for your help in contacting legislators again.</p>
<p>While a Senate subcommittee advanced a bill last week to bring back the death penalty, the bill was not brought up for a vote in the full committee. <strong>We are happy to report that the death penalty bills in both chambers are dead for the session</strong>. <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/2018/02/iowa-bishops-oppose-death-penalty-feb-6-2018/">Here’s a link to the statement on the death penalty from the bishops of Iowa</a>.</p>
<p>A bill to prevent “wrongful birth” claims, House File 2165, passed out of the Judiciary Committee. The ICC supports the legislation. It would stop parents from bringing lawsuits against physicians claiming a child should have been aborted because of a disability. These claims were never allowed in the state until an Iowa Supreme Court decision last summer. Contrary to the opposition’s rhetoric, the bill explicitly does <strong>not</strong> protect doctors who are grossly negligent in providing care.</p>
<p>The Senate Local Government Committee passed Senate Study Bill 3171, the Iowa Religious Freedom Restoration Act. This bill is very similar to the federal RFRA law that has been in place since the early 1990’s. It provides a standard of review for a court when there’s a conflict between exercise of religion and a law. The bill says that government should not substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion unless it can be demonstrated that applying that burden is a compelling government interest and the least restrictive means of furthering that interest. The ICC supports SSB 3171, although suggest removing the exemption for the Department of Corrections found in the bill. It is still important for the state prison system to respect the religious liberty of inmates.</p>
<p>Senate Study Bill 3120 passed out of the Senate Education Committee. It intends to secure free speech and public expression at state universities. The ICC supports the section of the bill which would allow student religious groups to choose their own leadership. The University of Iowa is in court because they did not allow a Christian business group to choose their leadership.</p>
<p>Senate Study Bill 3155 and House Joint Resolution 2009 have passed their respective Judiciary Committees. They are proposed state Constitutional amendments to subject any restrictions of the right of the people to keep and bear arms to “strict scrutiny.” The ICC recommends opposition to the bills because they would have the effect of making any regulation of firearms difficult and may put current state law regarding background checks and permitting at risk. The Catholic bishops of the United States have been a consistent advocate of reasonable regulation of firearms for many years. The amendment would need to pass both chambers of the legislature in two successive General Assemblies before being submitted to a vote of the people.</p>
<p>House Study Bill 592 passed the House State Government Committee. The bill would legalize betting on sports once the federal government allows it. The Catholic bishops of Iowa oppose attempts to increase the kinds of gambling allowed. The Church recognizes that gambling can be a legitimate recreational activity in an atmosphere of moderation and control.</p>
<p><strong>Other bills that are still eligible:</strong></p>
<p>We are encouraging the House to take up Senate File 359, which would stop any trafficking or use of fetal body parts obtained by elective abortions. Our position is that use of the fetal tissue in question is unethical because it is obtained as a result of an abortion.</p>
<p>It is being reported that Senate File 481, the immigration “sanctuary cities” bill, will be a priority for the House. <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/56531/respond">Click here for a sample message to your member of the House Public Safety Committee in opposition to the bill</a>.</p>
<p><strong>On these and other issues, you can send a message to your legislator by visiting our Action Center at </strong><a href="http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home"><strong>www.votervoice.net/icc/home</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p>IOWA SUPREME COURT HEARS ARGUMENTS ON WAITING PERIOD</p>
<p>The Iowa Supreme Court heard oral arguments last week on a case challenging Iowa’s “three-day waiting period before an abortion” law. The ICC has provided a written brief arguing that our state Constitution does not contain a right to an abortion. A decision is expected in the coming months.</p>
<p>FEDERAL ISSUES</p>
<p><strong>The U.S. Catholic bishops are planning a national “Call-in Day to Congress” on Monday, Feb. 26.</strong> Your advocacy will be critical to help the nearly 1.8 million Dreamers, young people who were brought into the United States by their parents as children. They may face deportation as soon as March 6 unless Congress reaches a bi-partisan deal to protect them. We’ll provide more information in next week’s newsletter.</p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, Feb. 11, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-12:6455245:BlogPost:1322702018-02-12T01:37:16.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>The first Iowa legislative deadline is coming up. Any non-budget bill has to pass out of a committee in one chamber by Friday to remain eligible.</p>
<p>Legislation addressing one of the ICC’s major priorities was introduced last week by the chair of the House Education Committee, Rep. Walt Rogers (R-Cedar Falls).</p>
<p>House Study Bill 651, the “Iowa Student Opportunity Act,” would offer state-funded Educational Savings Grants for some parents to help them choose the educational option…</p>
<p>The first Iowa legislative deadline is coming up. Any non-budget bill has to pass out of a committee in one chamber by Friday to remain eligible.</p>
<p>Legislation addressing one of the ICC’s major priorities was introduced last week by the chair of the House Education Committee, Rep. Walt Rogers (R-Cedar Falls).</p>
<p>House Study Bill 651, the “Iowa Student Opportunity Act,” would offer state-funded Educational Savings Grants for some parents to help them choose the educational option that best fits their child’s unique needs, regardless of income or address. The parent could use that money to help pay for nonpublic school tuition. The bill would also set up increased availability of charter schools. A subcommittee hearing is scheduled for Tuesday morning on the bill. </p>
<p>For many decades it has been the teaching of the Catholic Church that because parents have the primary responsibility for educating their children, they have a right, in justice, to access some of their tax dollars to help them exercise that duty.</p>
<p>For the school year starting July 1, 2019, Education Savings Grants (ESGs) would be available for pupils:</p>
<ul>
<li>eligible to enroll in kindergarten</li>
<li>grade 1-12 who have attended a public school for the equivalent of the two immediately preceding semesters</li>
<li>who received an ESG for the immediately preceding school year. (In other words, once in, you’re in every year.)</li>
</ul>
<p>Obviously, we would like to see a bill that would help current Catholic school parents, but this legislation would expand choice to many more Iowa families and is a solid foundation on which it can grow to additional families.</p>
<p>We encourage you to send a message to your member of the Iowa House in support at <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/56859/respond">https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/56859/respond</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Our other alerts are available at</strong> <a href="http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home"><strong>www.votervoice.net/icc/home</strong></a><strong>.</strong> These include a sample message opposing Senate File 481, which would, among other provisions, require local jails to comply with all requests from ICE (immigration control) to hold immigrants, even when federal law does not require it. People would be held for possible deportation, sometimes for relatively minor offenses, when they otherwise normally would be released. This may cause the separation of families and imposition of a penalty that is out-of-proportion to the wrong that has been done. The bill is now eligible for consideration by the full House Public Safety Committee.</p>
<p>There is also a sample message urging members of Congress to work together on a solution to help “Dreamers” and the DACA program. Interestingly, a recent Des Moines Register poll showed that Iowans overwhelmingly support citizenship for all undocumented immigrants, not just Dreamers who are undocumented but brought here as children.</p>
<p><strong>The following bills of interest are scheduled to have subcommittee hearings this week:</strong></p>
<p>Senate Study Bill 3134, reinstating the death penalty in Iowa. Last week the Iowa Catholic bishops <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/2018/02/iowa-bishops-oppose-death-penalty-feb-6-2018/">issued an updated statement opposing the death penalty</a>.</p>
<p>Senate Study Bill 3171, a bill to provide a standard of review for the court when there’s a conflict between the First Amendment’s protection of free exercise of religion and a state law. It says that government should not substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion unless it can be demonstrated that applying that burden is a compelling government interest and the least restrictive means of furthering that interest. Thirty-one states have a similar provision by state legislative action or court action. ICC supports the bill. There will also be a proclamation celebrating religious freedom signed by Gov. Reynolds on Wednesday.</p>
<p>Senate File 2194, which would re-prioritize federal Title X family planning funds away from abortion providers. The ICC supported a similar bill last year than addressed another family planning program.</p>
<p><strong>During last week’s legislative action:</strong></p>
<p>A bill to prohibit “wrongful birth” claims passed out of a House subcommittee with our support. House File 2165 would limit lawsuits against physicians by parents who claim a child should have been aborted because of a disability.</p>
<p>Senate Study Bill 3143 passed out of subcommittee. This bill would prohibit abortion after the baby’s heartbeat can be detected. <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/2018/02/icc-comments-on-heartbeat-abortion-ban/">Here’s the ICC statement to the subcommittee</a>.</p>
<p>Senate Study Bill 3120 passed out of subcommittee. It intends to secure free speech and public expression at state universities. The ICC particularly supports the section of the bill which would allow student religious groups to choose their own leadership.</p>
<p>Senate Study Bill 3155 passed out of subcommittee. It is a proposed state Constitutional amendment to subject any restrictions of the right of the people to keep and bear arms to “strict scrutiny.” The ICC recommends opposition to the bill because it would have the effect of making any regulation of firearms difficult and may put current state law regarding background checks and permitting at risk. The Catholic bishops of the United States have been a consistent advocate of reasonable regulation of firearms for many years. A House version has also passed out of subcommittee.</p>
<p>You can use our VoterVoice system to send messages to your legislator on any of these bills. <strong>Go to </strong><a href="http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home"><strong>www.votervoice.net/icc/home</strong></a> <strong>and put in your address.</strong> It’s that easy to get started!</p>
<p>FEDERAL ISSUES</p>
<p>Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, thanked the Trump Administration following release of its six-month report showing early signs of successful implementation of an expanded Mexico City Policy aptly renamed Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance. “U.S. tax dollars have no business going to organizations that are unwilling to pursue health outcomes for every person and instead insist on promoting and imposing their abortion ideology on women and children,” said Cardinal Dolan.</p>
<p>In addition, the Bipartisan Budget Act passed by Congress and signed by the President included the Federal Disaster Assistance Nonprofit Fairness Act, which codifies fair and equal treatment for houses of worship damaged in natural disasters by enabling them to seek assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>Next week we’ll have a full report on what happened at the legislative deadline. Thanks for being part of our legislative network!</p>
<p> </p>2018 Catholic Charities Saint Patrick’s Galatag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-07:6455245:BlogPost:1322632018-02-07T22:18:34.000ZJason Folletthttp://iowakofc.org/profile/JasonFollett
<p><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/lbzpeSqN3OQv-o4GMV7z*hlhdNaT9-ZbI5sceG5Agkv0n*WH5Jr1VyJ6x7znNpaCyLIZPXdCiM1GBhPg2zEF0eB2poh5w2TJ/2018Galaemailinvite.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/lbzpeSqN3OQv-o4GMV7z*hlhdNaT9-ZbI5sceG5Agkv0n*WH5Jr1VyJ6x7znNpaCyLIZPXdCiM1GBhPg2zEF0eB2poh5w2TJ/2018Galaemailinvite.jpg" class="align-full" width="432"/></a></p>
<p><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/lbzpeSqN3OQv-o4GMV7z*hlhdNaT9-ZbI5sceG5Agkv0n*WH5Jr1VyJ6x7znNpaCyLIZPXdCiM1GBhPg2zEF0eB2poh5w2TJ/2018Galaemailinvite.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/lbzpeSqN3OQv-o4GMV7z*hlhdNaT9-ZbI5sceG5Agkv0n*WH5Jr1VyJ6x7znNpaCyLIZPXdCiM1GBhPg2zEF0eB2poh5w2TJ/2018Galaemailinvite.jpg" class="align-full" width="432"/></a></p>2017-18 Keep Christ in Christmas Poster State Winnerstag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-06:6455245:BlogPost:1324362018-02-06T22:28:55.000ZIowa KofC Program Directorhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/ProgramDirectorIAKofC
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Congratulations to the 2017-2018 State Winners of the Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest!!!</strong></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 5-7 WINNER:</u></strong> Nora Harris, Huxley (Representing Council 14393)…</span></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Congratulations to the 2017-2018 State Winners of the Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest!!!</strong></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 5-7 WINNER:</u></strong> Nora Harris, Huxley (Representing Council 14393)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-3WUpoRMBAFaOWyoi09dVzjEo000pKwL90pFECpZNnbZVS3wruxcVVVDJzvKh1N56NTk6FB1cvF4VJJK2o6C9L5/NoraHarris.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-3WUpoRMBAFaOWyoi09dVzjEo000pKwL90pFECpZNnbZVS3wruxcVVVDJzvKh1N56NTk6FB1cvF4VJJK2o6C9L5/NoraHarris.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 8-11 WINNER:</u></strong> Zuri Nguyen, West Des Moines (Representing Council 12422)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-3XIi*baw-ghsUpSS6auuPWrdZ37-8K3K4OEhepmt-H5NMxGuMF7cM2R-dZ5hQ3fOZZxF9MkmRV0PU0biUNw10X/ZuriNguyen.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-3XIi*baw-ghsUpSS6auuPWrdZ37-8K3K4OEhepmt-H5NMxGuMF7cM2R-dZ5hQ3fOZZxF9MkmRV0PU0biUNw10X/ZuriNguyen.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></span></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 11-14 WINNER:</u></strong> Dana Cabrera, Bettendorf (Representing Council 15430)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-03z8wJ4HNexDUHvAzGC*pcV54-T-FHfaaUMARG8o0-2P3AcwOcKoUcYVSdcHiK7f77D4qPDl8FPGiQ1*nG5eQY/DanaCabrera.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-03z8wJ4HNexDUHvAzGC*pcV54-T-FHfaaUMARG8o0-2P3AcwOcKoUcYVSdcHiK7f77D4qPDl8FPGiQ1*nG5eQY/DanaCabrera.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></span></p>2017-18 Substance Abuse Poster State Winnerstag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-06:6455245:BlogPost:1325222018-02-06T22:24:04.000ZIowa KofC Program Directorhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/ProgramDirectorIAKofC
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Congratulations to the winners of the 2017 Substance Abuse Awareness Poster Contest</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 8-11 DRUG ABUSE AWARENESS WINNER:</u> </strong>Ellie Hilton, Van Meter (Representing Council 12422)…</span></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Congratulations to the winners of the 2017 Substance Abuse Awareness Poster Contest</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 8-11 DRUG ABUSE AWARENESS WINNER:</u> </strong>Ellie Hilton, Van Meter (Representing Council 12422)</span></p>
<p><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-1J5CjgkTelKL4HR*Ui1CMD6BDWtUkpixsdwqDBVzMncx5hT9wUL*M13emAbTmsXJGvjL7ivw3hz67e9mHpxEDy/EllieHilton.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-1J5CjgkTelKL4HR*Ui1CMD6BDWtUkpixsdwqDBVzMncx5hT9wUL*M13emAbTmsXJGvjL7ivw3hz67e9mHpxEDy/EllieHilton.jpg?width=450" width="450" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 8-11 ALCOHOL ABUSE AWARENESS WINNER:</u> </strong>Marin Heller, West Des Moines (Representing Council 12422)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-3HxN2lnML*5qDMslDdeOBVBs8FYVMkKc9R3fce2jHcedECA-hCc*aOeepCf65GUu9R6tSM8Dx3rb4yRf2vP4Np/MarinHeller.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-3HxN2lnML*5qDMslDdeOBVBs8FYVMkKc9R3fce2jHcedECA-hCc*aOeepCf65GUu9R6tSM8Dx3rb4yRf2vP4Np/MarinHeller.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 12-14 DRUG ABUSE AWARENESS WINNER:</u> </strong>Lucas Knipper, Earlville (Representing Council 1734)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-0x1cnBUitMtIhX8vjQkj601KZuyazACayF-beL0-xsZ57RDFmI7450*-egsJMz8CySOB0FtV6aCXtgaeBZ1WB5/LucasKnipper.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-0x1cnBUitMtIhX8vjQkj601KZuyazACayF-beL0-xsZ57RDFmI7450*-egsJMz8CySOB0FtV6aCXtgaeBZ1WB5/LucasKnipper.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong><u>AGE 12-14 ALCOHOL ABUSE AWARENESS WINNER:</u> </strong>Dominic Lozano, Urbandale (Representing Council 12422)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-0VeksO72kOu3FkAUqo9lPZ6lkRvOjc6NV7*t01s4EEkSK0H-kHF0Ils0nrgMksZAFXEvo*CsZcvLZEyFTMls92/DominicLozano.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/AQ3kOzL8C-0VeksO72kOu3FkAUqo9lPZ6lkRvOjc6NV7*t01s4EEkSK0H-kHF0Ils0nrgMksZAFXEvo*CsZcvLZEyFTMls92/DominicLozano.jpg?width=400" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></span></p>Watch Father Gross' homilies on youtubetag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-06:6455245:BlogPost:1324332018-02-06T18:27:39.000ZOssian Knightshttp://iowakofc.org/profile/OssianKnights
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Watch Father Gross' homilies on youtube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/frbobgross" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.youtube.com/user/frbobgross</a></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong>Watch Father Gross' homilies on youtube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/frbobgross" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.youtube.com/user/frbobgross</a></strong></span></p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, Feb. 4, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-04:6455245:BlogPost:1318962018-02-04T23:32:36.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>There was some good news at the State Capitol last week. While the House’s bill to bring back the death penalty, House Study Bill 569, passed out of a subcommittee, it <strong>looks like there aren’t enough votes</strong> to bring the bill out of the full House Public Safety Committee. Our attention now will turn to the Iowa Senate, where a new bill to bring back the death penalty (Senate Study Bill 3134) was introduced Thursday.</p>
<p><strong>Senate File 481 passed out of a House Public…</strong></p>
<p>There was some good news at the State Capitol last week. While the House’s bill to bring back the death penalty, House Study Bill 569, passed out of a subcommittee, it <strong>looks like there aren’t enough votes</strong> to bring the bill out of the full House Public Safety Committee. Our attention now will turn to the Iowa Senate, where a new bill to bring back the death penalty (Senate Study Bill 3134) was introduced Thursday.</p>
<p><strong>Senate File 481 passed out of a House Public Safety subcommittee last week</strong>. Among other provisions, SF 481 requires local jails to comply with all requests from ICE (immigration control) to hold immigrants, even when federal law does not require it. People would be held for possible deportation, sometimes for relatively minor offenses, when they otherwise normally would be released. This may cause the separation of families and imposition of a penalty that is out-of-proportion to the wrong that has been done.</p>
<p>The bill is now eligible for consideration by the full House Public Safety Committee. If you’re interested in finding out if your State Representative serves on the committee, go to <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/56531/respond">https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/56531/respond</a>.</p>
<p>The Iowa Catholic Conference <strong>supports House File 2165</strong>, which would limit lawsuits against physicians by parents who claim a child should have been aborted. This is in response to an Iowa Supreme Court decision which for the first time recognized these claims. This bill would not stop malpractice claims against physicians, but would lessen the pressure on them to be held financially responsible for a life they did not create or a disability they did not cause.</p>
<p>We expect to be working with legislators on other pro-life legislation in next couple of weeks. <strong>The ICC is still encouraging House members to take up Senate File 359, which limits trafficking in fetal body parts</strong>.</p>
<p>Senate Study Bill 3093 makes many changes to regulation of public utilities. An issue we’re watching is that the bill proposes fewer requirements of utilities related to energy efficiency. <a href="http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/encyclicals/documents/papa-francesco_20150524_enciclica-laudato-si.html"><strong>Laudato Si, the 2015 encyclical by Pope Francis on the “care of our common home,”</strong></a> has raised awareness about how our future as human beings is connected to how we take care of the Earth. Energy efficiency is a relatively inexpensive way to help us address our energy needs. Is now a time to pull back on the commitments that have been made to lessen our reliance on fossil fuels?</p>
<p>Lent begins next week. We encourage you to get a <strong>copy of the Lenten reflection booklet,</strong> “Caring for Our Common Home.” Based on “Laudato si’,” the booklet has a different reflection and action step for each day during Lent. Copies of the booklet are still available for $4.75 each by emailing info@iowacatholicconference.org or by <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/CaringForOurCommonHome-Web.pdf">downloading it for free</a>.</p>
<p>FAILURE TO PASS PAIN-CAPABLE UNBORN CHILD PROTECTION ACT ‘APPALLING’</p>
<p>Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York, chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' (USCCB) Committee on Pro-Life Activities, called the U.S. Senate's failure to pass the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act “appalling.” The bill, similar to Iowa’s new law passed last year, proposes to ban abortions starting at 20 weeks after fertilization.</p>
<p>“Abortions performed in the second half of pregnancy usually involve brutally dismembering a defenseless unborn child, while also posing serious dangers to his or her mother. The Senate's rejection of this common-sense legislation is radically out of step with most Americans,” Cardinal Dolan said.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>As the first legislative deadline of Feb. 16 approaches, there’s a flurry of bills being introduced and committee meetings taking place at the State Capitol. Keep an eye on your inbox for any last-minute action alerts.</p>
<p> </p>District 15 Travel Gavel Schedule 2017-2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-03:6455245:BlogPost:1290382018-02-03T06:43:16.000ZDistrict 15 Knightshttp://iowakofc.org/profile/District15Knights
<p><span class="font-size-3"><strong>The "travel gavel" is presented to a Council in northeast Iowa for best membership showing at meetings with other Councils. Travel Gavel points are added up over the fraternal year, and the northeast Iowa Council with the most points earns the Travel Gavel. Attending Travel Gavel meetings is a way to learn what other Councils are doing, and winning the Travel Gavel is a source of pride for the Council. Attending Travel Gavel meetings is a wonderful…</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3"><strong>The "travel gavel" is presented to a Council in northeast Iowa for best membership showing at meetings with other Councils. Travel Gavel points are added up over the fraternal year, and the northeast Iowa Council with the most points earns the Travel Gavel. Attending Travel Gavel meetings is a way to learn what other Councils are doing, and winning the Travel Gavel is a source of pride for the Council. Attending Travel Gavel meetings is a wonderful manifestation of Christian unity and fraternity, and the food is usually quite good.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-3"><strong>Schedule of travel gavel meetings for the 2017-2018 fraternal year:</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Tue 9 January: <a href="http://iowakofc.org/profile/WaukonKnights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Waukon</a><br/> Monday 12 February in <a href="http://iowakofc.org/profile/DecorahKnights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Decorah</a> @ Saint Benedict's school gym; click <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/402+Rural+Ave,+Decorah,+IA+52101/@43.2973687,-91.7841433,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x87fbad97ea600937:0x7e0b0220938cdd12!8m2!3d43.2973687!4d-91.7819546" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> for map.<br/> Thu 1 March: <a href="http://iowakofc.org/profile/monona_area_knights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Monona</a><br/></strong> <strong>Mon 5 March: <a href="http://iowakofc.org/profile/OssianKnights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ossian</a><br/> Thu 12 April: <a href="http://iowakofc.org/profile/LansingKnights" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lansing</a></strong></p>
<p><b>All travel gavels start @ 7 pm.</b></p>Field Agent Barry McNulty earns January 2018 Agent of the Monthtag:iowakofc.org,2018-02-02:6455245:BlogPost:1318832018-02-02T15:44:14.000ZPamela Kae Stillhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/PamelaKaeStill
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Still Agency - servicing over 10,000 members of the Knights of Columbus in Central and Southeast Iowa, is proud to announce that Field Agent <strong>BARRY McNULTY</strong> earned Agent of the Month for January 2018!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Barry is a dedicated and true professional. By enhancing and protecting his member's financial security he fulfills his mission to Father Michael McGivney's vision of protection to the widows and…</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Still Agency - servicing over 10,000 members of the Knights of Columbus in Central and Southeast Iowa, is proud to announce that Field Agent <strong>BARRY McNULTY</strong> earned Agent of the Month for January 2018!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Barry is a dedicated and true professional. By enhancing and protecting his member's financial security he fulfills his mission to Father Michael McGivney's vision of protection to the widows and orphans of his Brother Knights. Barry prides himself on helping you, his brother Knights meet their most important financial goals and objectives yet holding to true to the Catholic morals and values!</span></p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, Jan.28, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-01-29:6455245:BlogPost:1319612018-01-29T02:36:55.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>Activity is picking up at the State Capitol as several issues of concern to Catholics are being considered.</p>
<p><strong>There is a subcommittee meeting scheduled in the House on Tuesday to consider Senate File 481</strong>. This is the immigration enforcement bill that the Iowa Catholic Conference has opposed since it was introduced in the Senate last year. It passed the Senate last April and is being considered in the House.</p>
<p>Senate File 481 requires local jails to comply with all…</p>
<p>Activity is picking up at the State Capitol as several issues of concern to Catholics are being considered.</p>
<p><strong>There is a subcommittee meeting scheduled in the House on Tuesday to consider Senate File 481</strong>. This is the immigration enforcement bill that the Iowa Catholic Conference has opposed since it was introduced in the Senate last year. It passed the Senate last April and is being considered in the House.</p>
<p>Senate File 481 requires local jails to comply with all requests from ICE (immigration control) to hold immigrants, even when federal law does not require it. People would be held for possible deportation, even for relatively minor offenses, when they otherwise normally would get released. In addition, we are all safer when immigrants feel they can trust police and are willing to report crimes rather than avoiding the police.</p>
<p>Nothing in existing law stops law enforcement authorities from keeping dangerous people in jail when necessary.</p>
<p><strong>There is a subcommittee meeting scheduled on Thursday to consider House Study Bill 569</strong>, which would bring back the possibility of a sentence of death for first degree murder. The Catholic bishops do not believe the death penalty is necessary to protect society.</p>
<p>The death penalty was abolished in Iowa in 1965. A conviction of first degree murder brings a sentence of life in prison without parole.</p>
<p>In 1998, the last time this issue came around, the Catholic bishops of Iowa said, “We dare to take this position and we raise this challenge because of our commitment to a consistent ethic of life, by which we wish to give unambiguous witness to the sacredness of every human life from conception through natural death. We proclaim the good news that no person is beyond the redemptive mercy of God.”</p>
<p>Pope Francis has said, “All Christians and people of good will are thus called today to fight not only for the abolition of the death penalty, whether legal or illegal, and in all its forms, but also in order to improve prison conditions, with respect for the human dignity of the people deprived of their freedom.”</p>
<p>CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK</p>
<p><strong>This week is Catholic Schools Week in Iowa</strong>. The theme, “Catholic Schools: Learn. Serve. Lead. Succeed.” focuses on the important spiritual, academic and societal contributions provided by a Catholic education.</p>
<p>National School Choice Week was celebrated last week and we appreciate Gov. Kim Reynolds’ presence at an event with students from Holy Family School in Des Moines. You can see a picture on our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/iowacatholicconference">Facebook page</a>.</p>
<p>We anticipate the legislature will be considering ways to help all parents choose the educational option that best fits their child’s unique needs, regardless of income, location, cost, special needs, or other barriers currently preventing that choice.</p>
<p>STRENGTHENING FAMILIES</p>
<p>We appreciate the introduction of House File 2053 by Rep. Dave Heaton (R-Mt. Pleasant) <strong>to create an 18-month-long window after marriage in which a new spouse’s income would not count</strong> <strong>when determining eligibility for welfare</strong>. Sometimes people choose to avoid marriage because they would lose welfare benefits; the bill would help fix that problem.</p>
<p>PAIN-CAPABLE UNBORN CHILD PROTECTION ACT</p>
<p>At the federal level, the <strong>U.S. Senate plans to vote on the “Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act” today</strong> (Monday). This bill is similar to the law enacted in Iowa last year to stop abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy. You can send a message in support at <a href="http://www.humanlifeaction.org/take-action">www.humanlifeaction.org/take-action</a>.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>Don’t forget to use our website to contact your members of Congress and state legislators on matters of interest. A major concern of the U.S. Catholic bishops’ is passing protection for Dreamers/DACA recipients. For more information go to <a href="http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home">www.votervoice.net/icc/home</a>.</p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, Jan. 21, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-01-21:6455245:BlogPost:1321672018-01-21T22:59:52.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>It was another short week at the state Capitol as Iowans celebrated the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday last Monday.</p>
<p><strong>A bill to bring back the death penalty was introduced Thursday</strong> in the Iowa Senate. <a href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=87&amp;ba=SSB3042">Senate Study Bill 3042</a> would allow the penalty of death for the first degree murder of a peace officer. The Iowa Catholic Conference opposes the bill.…</p>
<p>It was another short week at the state Capitol as Iowans celebrated the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday last Monday.</p>
<p><strong>A bill to bring back the death penalty was introduced Thursday</strong> in the Iowa Senate. <a href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=87&amp;ba=SSB3042">Senate Study Bill 3042</a> would allow the penalty of death for the first degree murder of a peace officer. The Iowa Catholic Conference opposes the bill. <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Iowa_Fact_Sheet.pdf">Click here to download a quick fact sheet</a> on the issue. Keep an eye on our Action Center at <a href="http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home">www.votervoice.net/icc/home</a> for any action alerts if the bill does advance.</p>
<p><strong>The Iowa House Human Resources Committee unanimously passed an update</strong> to Iowa "Safe Haven" law (Senate File 360) on Jan 17. The bill would allow parents to surrender a baby up to 30 days old to EMS and other first responders. Currently babies can be surrendered at health care institutions. Mothers are able to give up a child without a criminal charge if they feel they can no longer care for the baby. An estimated 30 babies have been helped through this program since 2001. The Senate approved SF 360 last session on a 48-0 vote.</p>
<p>LATINO DAY ON THE HILL</p>
<p>Many Latinos and immigrants will be at the Capitol this Thursday, Jan. 25, for the Iowa Commission of Latino Affairs’ first Latino Day on the Hill. Attendees include legislators and other elected and appointed officials from all over Iowa, including some with the largest Latino populations in the State. Many Latino businesses, students, educators and activists will be there as well. It will be a great opportunity for Latinos and allies across the state to speak with legislators about their concerns.</p>
<p>LEGISLATIVE FORUMS</p>
<p>During the legislative session, many lawmakers hold local events to take questions from constituents. Here’s some links where you can find the locations of these events – you might want to check your local newspaper for updates.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.senate.iowa.gov/democrats/events/">http://www.senate.iowa.gov/democrats/events/</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.iowasenaterepublicans.com/events/">http://www.iowasenaterepublicans.com/events/</a></li>
<li><a href="http://iowahouse.org/forums">http://iowahouse.org/forums</a></li>
<li><a href="http://iowahouserepublicans.com/forums">http://iowahouserepublicans.com/forums</a> (not updated)</li>
</ul>
<p>FEDERAL ISSUES</p>
<p>So far in Washington, D.C., there have been negotiations but no legislative action on one of the U.S. Catholic bishops’ main immigration priorities – the DREAM Act. Our action alert on the issue is at <a href="http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home">http://www.votervoice.net/icc/home</a>. Please take the time to contact your members of Congress today.</p>
<p>Following the 2018 March for Life in D.C., we’re in the middle of the “9 Days for Life” novena. You can find more information at <a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/january-roe-events/nine-days-of-prayer-penance-and-pilgrimage.cfm">http://www.usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/january-roe-events/nine-days-of-prayer-penance-and-pilgrimage.cfm</a>. As Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York said, “Our prayers matter. Every prayer matters, and if you can't start at the beginning, jump in when you can!"</p>
<p>Cardinal Dolan, as the chair of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities, and Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, chair of the USCCB’s Committee for Religious Liberty, also offered a joint statement in response to the creation of a new Division on Conscience and Religious Freedom within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights and other related administrative actions. It said, in part: ““We applaud HHS for its significant actions to protect conscience rights and religious freedom. For more than forty years—dating back to the Church amendment of 1973 - Congress has enacted federal laws protecting rights of conscience in health care. We are grateful that HHS is taking seriously its charge to protect these fundamental civil rights through formation of a new division dedicated to protecting conscience rights and religious freedom.”</p>
<p>Conscience protection should not be subject to political whims, however. Permanent legislative relief is essential. We urge Congress to pass the Conscience Protection Act in order to give victims of discrimination the ability to defend their rights in court. No one should be forced to violate their deeply held convictions about the sanctity of human life.”</p>
<p>A list of current federal laws protecting conscience rights can be found here: <a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/religious-liberty/conscience-protection/upload/Federal-Conscience-Laws.pdf">http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/religious-liberty/conscience-protection/upload/Federal-Conscience-Laws.pdf</a>.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>Jacob Bossman (R-Sioux City) was elected to Iowa House District 6 last week to replace Jim Carlin, who had been elected to the state Senate. This brings the House back to a 59-41 advantage for the Republicans.</p>
<p>As Lent approaches, we encourage you to get a copy of the Lenten reflection booklet, “Caring for Our Common Home.” Based on “Laudato si’,” the booklet has a different reflection and action step for each day during Lent. Copies of the booklet are still available for $4.75 each by emailing info@iowacatholicconference.org or by <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/CaringForOurCommonHome-Web.pdf">downloading it for free</a>.</p>Decorah Knights Council 4208 List of Events All Through the Yeartag:iowakofc.org,2018-01-18:6455245:BlogPost:1123732018-01-18T02:50:22.000ZDecorah Knightshttp://iowakofc.org/profile/DecorahKnights
<p><span class="font-size-5"><span class="font-size-5"><span><span>Click <a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/xbGTwUyZToC20B6IP5yE3NWOJZCjgeQfZOOhc7J2wpF7XQTAKJy-nG1mwwJXRPysG-YQwhwRKWTjdLXCmgu4SL-s-0gGRl5d/180101180731.pdf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">here</a></span><span> for the list of events for January - July 2018.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-5"><span class="font-size-5"><span>Click …</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-5"><span class="font-size-5"><span><span>Click <a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/xbGTwUyZToC20B6IP5yE3NWOJZCjgeQfZOOhc7J2wpF7XQTAKJy-nG1mwwJXRPysG-YQwhwRKWTjdLXCmgu4SL-s-0gGRl5d/180101180731.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a></span><span> for the list of events for January - July 2018.</span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-5"><span class="font-size-5"><span>Click </span><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/SAsLWER7F0l2ZG79oi8loP8XFsBG-OTf9ZgxlIX*fbThKxkmYYRRMdikBkbelpHfRdtNU4tMkd30*irR8gQcDozJFWLqhLg4/170700171200.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a><span> for the list of events for July - December 2017.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-5"><span class="font-size-5"><span>Click </span><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/u66VLCd0ARCbN8yKUnZK-5WXqgGh5Z7q7kigloS9vGtJPmNpLwloSxfnyFUHrJCweplBnzcZEDhfaoYAP-xLklb9nIJL2nFs/170100170700councilevents.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a><span> for the list of events for January - July 2017.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-5"><span class="font-size-5">Click <a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/u66VLCd0ARAKgu7mHkkzzp3IHYqGHjtTp1edvT3-PKd*X7sCcKVdvWHRqpou5yu*kQWA8aGNQoFcs3Tc8HpSX8BPFdUMz4*B/160800161200councilevents.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> for the list of events for August - Dec 2016.</span></span></p>Iowa Catholic Conference Newsletter, Jan. 14, 2018tag:iowakofc.org,2018-01-15:6455245:BlogPost:1321322018-01-15T03:48:14.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>The 2018 session of the General Assembly convened last Monday. Much of the week was taken up by reports to the legislature by the executive branch, courts and the Iowa National Guard. The legislature will come back into session Tuesday, Jan. 16 after taking a break for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.</p>
<p>Governor Kim Reynolds delivered her first Condition of the State address last week. She mentioned several items of interest to the Iowa Catholic Conference. The governor stated her…</p>
<p>The 2018 session of the General Assembly convened last Monday. Much of the week was taken up by reports to the legislature by the executive branch, courts and the Iowa National Guard. The legislature will come back into session Tuesday, Jan. 16 after taking a break for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.</p>
<p>Governor Kim Reynolds delivered her first Condition of the State address last week. She mentioned several items of interest to the Iowa Catholic Conference. The governor stated her commitment for school choice and also said that said her upcoming tax reform plan will include support for federal 529 plans, which now provide federal tax benefits for private K-12 tuition.</p>
<p>The governor also acknowledged mistakes being made in the implementation of Iowa’s managed care Medicaid system and pledged to “make this right,” while affirming support for improving Iowa’s mental health care system.</p>
<p>Chief Justice Mark Cady’s Condition of the Judiciary speech on Monday expressed support for specialty courts. He said that statewide expansion of these courts will help offenders and save money for the state. Catholic Charities assists with these programs in some parts of the state.</p>
<p>CONTACT CONGRESS NOW: PROTECT THE VULNERABLE, INCLUDING DREAMERS</p>
<p>The bishops’ top federal priority right now is asking Congress to move quickly on legislation that would provide urgently needed relief for Dreamers. These are the more than 800,000 young people who entered the United States without documentation through no fault of their own. Dreamers were protected from deportation through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. However, that program is coming to a close in March.</p>
<p>The Iowa bishops have called upon our members of Congress to “move forward in a bipartisan manner and find a permanent legislative solution to ensure that DACA youth can remain in the United States and can continue to reach their God-given potential.”</p>
<p>Dubuque Archbishop Michael Jackels has released a video about the immigration issue and DACA. You can find it at <a href="https://www.dbqarch.org/offices/respect-life/migrantrefugeeparishtoolkit/">https://www.dbqarch.org/offices/respect-life/migrantrefugeeparishtoolkit/</a>.</p>
<p>A legislative fix of some sort for this situation seems to have bipartisan support. We have an updated action alert in support of the DREAM Act. Please <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/56097/respond">click here for additional information and to contact your member of Congress</a>.</p>
<p>NINE DAYS FOR LIFE</p>
<p>“9 Days for Life” is the U.S. bishops’ annual period of prayer and action focused on cherishing the gift of every person's life. While the overarching intention of the centerpiece novena is the end to abortion, each day focuses on a different aspect of respecting each other's God-given dignity. The novena starts this Thursday – <a href="http://www.usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/january-roe-events/nine-days-of-prayer-penance-and-pilgrimage.cfm">click here for more information</a>.</p>
<p>In addition, <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/2018/01/protecting-the-hyde-amendment/">we have a new informational resource on the “Hyde Amendment,”</a> which limits funding of abortion.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>Thanks for being part of the Iowa Catholic Conference legislative network. Several thousand messages were sent to Iowa legislators last year by our members! We’re looking forward to legislative action at the State Capitol picking up this week.</p>2017 Raffle for Life Concludes; Dorothy’s House Wins!tag:iowakofc.org,2018-01-15:6455245:BlogPost:1321312018-01-15T02:00:00.000ZJason Folletthttp://iowakofc.org/profile/JasonFollett
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/7OiHF-zWj7TO0OHbWApc-5YIwzKw1T5giu*IOSQqsWzaiO-ObMioQz5hPthzVJRrLNyXz2brf3MnWMEiyqOFD2UAS9HQCoyJ/Raffle_For_Life_KofC_11th_LOGO_RGB.jpg" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/7OiHF-zWj7TO0OHbWApc-5YIwzKw1T5giu*IOSQqsWzaiO-ObMioQz5hPthzVJRrLNyXz2brf3MnWMEiyqOFD2UAS9HQCoyJ/Raffle_For_Life_KofC_11th_LOGO_RGB.jpg" width="266"></img></a></span> <span style="font-size: 14pt;">The Eleventh Annual Raffle for Life concluded on 4 December 2017 with the prize drawing at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Catholic Church in Ankeny.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;">This year seven Knights of…</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/7OiHF-zWj7TO0OHbWApc-5YIwzKw1T5giu*IOSQqsWzaiO-ObMioQz5hPthzVJRrLNyXz2brf3MnWMEiyqOFD2UAS9HQCoyJ/Raffle_For_Life_KofC_11th_LOGO_RGB.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/7OiHF-zWj7TO0OHbWApc-5YIwzKw1T5giu*IOSQqsWzaiO-ObMioQz5hPthzVJRrLNyXz2brf3MnWMEiyqOFD2UAS9HQCoyJ/Raffle_For_Life_KofC_11th_LOGO_RGB.jpg" class="align-center" width="266"/></a></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;">The Eleventh Annual Raffle for Life concluded on 4 December 2017 with the prize drawing at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Catholic Church in Ankeny.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;">This year seven Knights of Columbus Councils participated: Msgr. J.M. Hanson Council 5038, Ankeny; All Saints Council 10282, Des Moines; Saint Mary’s-Holy Cross Council 15347, Elkhart; Saint Boniface Council 4009, Waukee; Sacred Heart Council 9632, West Des Moines; Saint Francis of Assisi Council 12422, West Des Moines; and Bishop Daly Council 644, Des Moines.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Out of the 764 raffle tickets sold, Joe Van Drasek, with a ticket he purchased from Sacred Heart Council 9632, won the grand prize of a car lease from Willis Auto Campus. Nineteen other prizes were also awarded.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;">On 8 January 2018, council Ray Blasé, Raffle for Life Chairman, announced that the Eleventh Annual Raffle for Life resulted in a donation of $38,583.59 to Dorothy’s House, which provides a safe place for the practice of life for those teen and youth girls whose lives have been interrupted by the sex trafficking industry.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/7OiHF-zWj7TbpxlCWsTFEvkulKUbdavwcOJPLQ9toEACgHT7Koo4dA1rYewnW9lS1h2GJm8*tg0gLH-h7y5k7sGU*XXmJOhp/RaffleforLife1.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/7OiHF-zWj7TbpxlCWsTFEvkulKUbdavwcOJPLQ9toEACgHT7Koo4dA1rYewnW9lS1h2GJm8*tg0gLH-h7y5k7sGU*XXmJOhp/RaffleforLife1.jpg?width=750" class="align-center" width="750"/></a></span>Kellie Markey, second from left, Founder of Dorothy's House, receives the proceeds from the Eleventh Annual Raffle for Life totaling $38,583.59. Presenting the check to Markey were, left to right, Jerry McClain - Grand Knight of Saint Mary’s-Holy Cross Council 15347, Ray Blasé - Raffle for Life Chairman, and Steve Syverson - Deputy Grand Knight of Msgr. J.M. Hanson Council 5038.</p>Legislative session to convene Jan. 8tag:iowakofc.org,2018-01-04:6455245:BlogPost:1321132018-01-04T17:47:38.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>The second session of the 87th Iowa General Assembly is set to convene on Monday, when legislative leaders will address the chambers to talk about their plans for the session. Coming up on Tuesday is Gov. Kim Reynolds’ first “Condition of the State” speech to the legislature. The Republicans have control of the Senate 29-20 (with one independent) and the House by a count of 58-41 pending a special election. </p>
<p>It appears that the legislature may find it necessary early in the session…</p>
<p>The second session of the 87th Iowa General Assembly is set to convene on Monday, when legislative leaders will address the chambers to talk about their plans for the session. Coming up on Tuesday is Gov. Kim Reynolds’ first “Condition of the State” speech to the legislature. The Republicans have control of the Senate 29-20 (with one independent) and the House by a count of 58-41 pending a special election. </p>
<p>It appears that the legislature may find it necessary early in the session to make some mid-year cuts in the state budget to make sure it’s balanced. Given the budget issues and the fact it’s an election year, signs point to fewer big or controversial initiatives being passed during this session. But you never know!</p>
<p>As for the Iowa Catholic Conference legislative agenda, our work begins with the defense of human life and dignity and the protection of the weak and vulnerable. You can find our list of legislative priorities <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/2018-icc-legislative-concerns-and-priorities/">here</a>.</p>
<p>These commitments are a natural development of the words we hear in Scripture. We are to love our neighbor as Christ has loved us (John 13:34). We are to bring “good news to the poor, liberty to captives, sight to the blind, and to set the downtrodden free,” as Jesus says in Luke, quoting from the prophet Isaiah (Luke 4:18; Isaiah 61:1-2; 58:6). We look to Exodus, chapter 20, which tells us, “You shall not kill.”</p>
<p>For some advocacy tips, you can check out our toolbox at <a href="http://iowacatholicconference.org/action-center/lobbying-resources">iowacatholicconference.org/action-center/lobbying-resources</a>. Another way to stay in touch is to download the “Voter Voice” app on your iPhone or Android device. Once you enter your email you can search for “Iowa Catholic Conference.” That way you can respond to our alerts directly from your phone.</p>
<p>FEDERAL TAX CHANGES</p>
<p>Catholic schools have been receiving questions about the new “529 plan” provision included in the Tax Reform and Jobs Act passed by Congress at the end of the year. This will enable parents to put away savings for federal tax-free distribution to pay for K-12 Catholic school tuition. (Currently, 529 plans offer tax-free earnings growth and tax-free withdrawals when the funds are used to pay for college, whether public or private.)</p>
<p>We are investigating the possibility of changing state law to also allow for a <em>state</em> tax deduction on contributions to be used for K-12 private school tuition. <strong>Before you make any change to your 529 plan you should consult with your tax attorney</strong>.</p>
<p>After the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed the tax bill, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, said, “The legislation achieves some laudable things, like doubling the standard deduction, which will help many struggling families avoid tax liability, expanding the use of 529 education plans, and increasing the child tax credit.</p>
<p>“However, the Act contains a number of problematic provisions that will have dramatic negative consequences, particularly for those most in need. Among other things, the Joint Committee on Taxation indicates that the bill will eventually raise taxes on those with lower incomes while simultaneously cutting taxes for the wealthy. This is clearly problematic, especially for the poor.”</p>
<p>DREAM ACT ALERT - NATIONAL MIGRATION WEEK 2018</p>
<p>For nearly a half century, the Catholic Church in the United States has celebrated National Migration Week, an opportunity for the Church to highlight immigrants, refugees, children, and human trafficking survivors. This year's theme, "Many Journeys, One Family," draws attention to the fact that all of our families have a migration story: some recent and others in the distant past. Regardless of where we are and where we came from, we remain part of the human family and are called to live in solidarity with one another.</p>
<p>At the federal level, our main legislative priority is to secure passage of the Dream Act. <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/55662/respond">Click here for our action alert and sample message</a> to our members of Congress.</p>
<p>ARCHDIOCESAN CATHOLIC CHARITIES CLOSING REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT PROGRAM</p>
<p> Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque is ending its 77-year-old Refugee and Resettlement ministry. “The primary reason for the program's closure is the US Department of State cutbacks which decrease the number of refugees who can legally seek refuge in the United States from 110,000 to 45,000 annually,” the archdiocese reported in a news release.</p>
<p>“Our faith guides us to believe in the dignity of all persons and the need to protect the most vulnerable, especially refugees and migrants. It is with a heavy heart that we announce the ending of this ministry,” said Archbishop Michael Jackels.</p>
<p>Catholic Charities of the Dubuque Archdiocese remains committed to supporting refugees and immigrants through their Immigration Legal Services ministry available in Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, Hampton, Marshalltown, New Hampton, Postville and Waterloo. </p>
<p>UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE CAPITOL</p>
<p><strong>The Iowa Prayer for Life</strong> will be held next Thursday, Jan. 11 beginning at 9 a.m. with a training session on lobbying followed by time to lobby your legislators. There will be a rally at 10:30 a.m. with comments by state legislators.</p>
<p>Lunch and a program will follow at Calvary Baptist Church (606 E. 9<sup>th</sup>, Des Moines). Speakers will be Dr. Donna Harrison, president of the American Association of Pro-Life OB/GYNs, and Catherine Davis of the National Black Pro-Life Coalition. The event is sponsored by the Coalition of Pro-Life Leaders and the Iowa Life Fellowship. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/iowa-prayer-for-life-tickets-41463460326?utm-medium=discovery&amp;utm-campaign=social&amp;utm-content=attendeeshare&amp;aff=escb&amp;utm-source=cp&amp;utm-term=listing">Click here for free registration</a>.</p>
<p><strong>The Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking and Slavery (NAHT)</strong> will hold its 2018 legislative “Day on the Hill” on Wednesday, Jan. 17 at the Iowa State Capitol Building in Des Moines. This second annual event will feature Gov. Reynolds speaking on the importance of public awareness of this heinous crime that takes place here in Iowa and across the nation and the world. For more information go to <a href="http://www.iowanaht.org">www.iowanaht.org</a>.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>We are now returning to our usual weekly newsletter schedule during the legislative session. We would appreciate it if you could put the work of the Iowa Catholic Conference in your prayers from time to time. Thank you!</p>Banuelos working with area Councils to Carry on Fr. McGivney's Visiontag:iowakofc.org,2018-01-03:6455245:BlogPost:1320092018-01-03T12:00:00.000ZPublicity Directorhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/PublicityChairman
<div>"When the Knights of Columbus were founded in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney, the goal was the protection of Irish Catholic families that had no access to public services when they lost their breadwinner.</div>
<div>135 years later, the Knights of Columbus continue reaching out to those Catholic families that have traveled from afar and have found comfort in their home: the Catholic Church. Our outreach efforts are not limited to charitable works: we want to call them…</div>
<div>"When the Knights of Columbus were founded in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney, the goal was the protection of Irish Catholic families that had no access to public services when they lost their breadwinner.</div>
<div>135 years later, the Knights of Columbus continue reaching out to those Catholic families that have traveled from afar and have found comfort in their home: the Catholic Church. Our outreach efforts are not limited to charitable works: we want to call them brothers. </div>
<div>We currently have five Spanish speaking councils in Iowa with over 300 members and are in the process of opening a new one in Ottumwa. Councils all over the state have Hispanic presence and are looking for more resources in Spanish to better serve their parishes and their families.</div>
<div>More recently we have successfully extended our arms to the refugee community, specifically with our Burmese brothers. We have members in Columbus Junction and recently, 12 new members joined Council 15336 in St. Ambrose Cathedral in Des Moines. Most of these members have also benefited by the life insurance protection that the Order offers. </div>
<div><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/zcKfVTeW90mybNie02ni*Wpe2cG8JzBldicdLNLINrzxK69Vf3QK6tztO8nTapWEM3z621ZY38SLVDPKc3-s-ZlBjYru42O-/BurmeseColumbusJunction.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/zcKfVTeW90mybNie02ni*Wpe2cG8JzBldicdLNLINrzxK69Vf3QK6tztO8nTapWEM3z621ZY38SLVDPKc3-s-ZlBjYru42O-/BurmeseColumbusJunction.jpg?width=750" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></div>
<div><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/zcKfVTeW90mjqExpS3XqmRWF5eoBACof94VmlLAJ33QpC1RmZvYVn5nYNV1GskRlOFtwToB6viEW82SMXMX48p2qYLSY6h2U/BurmeseDesMoines.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/zcKfVTeW90mjqExpS3XqmRWF5eoBACof94VmlLAJ33QpC1RmZvYVn5nYNV1GskRlOFtwToB6viEW82SMXMX48p2qYLSY6h2U/BurmeseDesMoines.jpg?width=750" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></div>
<div>The dream of Father McGivney continues alive with the Catholic immigrants of the 21st Century. The protection of Catholic families and the development of lay leaders in our parishes, regardless of the language in which Mass is celebrated, is the legacy of our founder and the duty of every Knight of Columbus. We Share the Journey as Pope Francis has called us. We embrace them and call them brothers."</div>Iowa City Council 842--4th Place in International Service Programtag:iowakofc.org,2018-01-01:6455245:BlogPost:1320072018-01-01T12:00:00.000ZPublicity Directorhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/PublicityChairman
<p><span>Congratulations to Iowa City Council 842 on receiving the 4th place award for International Church Service Program.</span></p>
<p><span><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ASu4roqT3EVaoWkFnN-qNPL2tnuSGEEnOnMkaaIsRByV9H9AXbNFZLeh84Y9dc4pSqJSBA0-3aOa56F2EXGETmQGgMZGg*AR/20171118_093242.jpg" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ASu4roqT3EVaoWkFnN-qNPL2tnuSGEEnOnMkaaIsRByV9H9AXbNFZLeh84Y9dc4pSqJSBA0-3aOa56F2EXGETmQGgMZGg*AR/20171118_093242.jpg?width=750" width="750"></img></a></span></p>
<p><span>Pictured is Grand Knight Darrin Robinson and Worthy State Secretary Paul…</span></p>
<p><span>Congratulations to Iowa City Council 842 on receiving the 4th place award for International Church Service Program.</span></p>
<p><span><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ASu4roqT3EVaoWkFnN-qNPL2tnuSGEEnOnMkaaIsRByV9H9AXbNFZLeh84Y9dc4pSqJSBA0-3aOa56F2EXGETmQGgMZGg*AR/20171118_093242.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ASu4roqT3EVaoWkFnN-qNPL2tnuSGEEnOnMkaaIsRByV9H9AXbNFZLeh84Y9dc4pSqJSBA0-3aOa56F2EXGETmQGgMZGg*AR/20171118_093242.jpg?width=750" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
<p><span>Pictured is Grand Knight Darrin Robinson and Worthy State Secretary Paul Lee.</span></p>Iowa Knights of Columbus Dedicated Cornerstone Rock for VA Hospital Terrain Therapy Gardentag:iowakofc.org,2017-12-31:6455245:BlogPost:1319052017-12-31T12:00:00.000ZPublicity Directorhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/PublicityChairman
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Author: James Maertens, Council #1961 Stuart</span></i></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ttEVa7qzuueOOj4AcCdWHzLbXK6QSC9FO0IhNuQtU7zGm9P6wMros4v*4jLXBqqj2DVB7G3T4KKjYftEZwmUreQd05cxaK6y/IMG_0457.JPG" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ttEVa7qzuueOOj4AcCdWHzLbXK6QSC9FO0IhNuQtU7zGm9P6wMros4v*4jLXBqqj2DVB7G3T4KKjYftEZwmUreQd05cxaK6y/IMG_0457.JPG?width=750" width="750"></img></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Members of the Iowa Knights of Columbus greatly exemplified their fourth degree duty of patriotism Sunday, December 17th. Members were on…</span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Author: James Maertens, Council #1961 Stuart</span></i></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ttEVa7qzuueOOj4AcCdWHzLbXK6QSC9FO0IhNuQtU7zGm9P6wMros4v*4jLXBqqj2DVB7G3T4KKjYftEZwmUreQd05cxaK6y/IMG_0457.JPG" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ttEVa7qzuueOOj4AcCdWHzLbXK6QSC9FO0IhNuQtU7zGm9P6wMros4v*4jLXBqqj2DVB7G3T4KKjYftEZwmUreQd05cxaK6y/IMG_0457.JPG?width=750" width="750" class="align-left"/></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Members of the Iowa Knights of Columbus greatly exemplified their fourth degree duty of patriotism Sunday, December 17th. Members were on hand for the official dedication of a painted rock that will serve as a cornerstone for the Terrain Therapy Garden at VA Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ceremony began with an honor guard procession and the singing of the national anthem. Following comments from Brenda Safranski, on behalf of Senator Joni Ernst, the artist, Bubba Sorensen, described his mural on the rock. Sorensen especially noted his portrayal of the American flag. “One of my signature things to do is to put ‘Old Glory’ over the top and to me that represents not only all veterans but all Americans.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ttEVa7qzuuel2IltrGCFLx8TxmL3KQKIN5AzhkRwhcv*SCs7vu7qxqk-PJgDjoadeyUZUKgH65VQGwowU*kIAUgP3kDNPRld/IMG_0464.JPG" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ttEVa7qzuuel2IltrGCFLx8TxmL3KQKIN5AzhkRwhcv*SCs7vu7qxqk-PJgDjoadeyUZUKgH65VQGwowU*kIAUgP3kDNPRld/IMG_0464.JPG?width=750" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sorensen wanted the rock to display an overall medical theme and included nurses and other medical representations. He also purposefully left any depicted veterans as branch-neutral as possible, to ensure that all vets could experience the peace and healing this rock could provide. In his description, Sorensen made sure to point out the divine creator’s hand in creating the masterpiece. “I think God does a pretty good job of forming stuff too. So I let his artwork show through.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bob Ukena, Veterans Outreach Coordinator for the Iowa Knights of Columbus and a veteran himself, also gave his remarks on the dedication. In his numerous notes of gratitude, he thanked those medical personnel who are portrayed on the rock. “While we honor the warriors who have served, we frequently overlook the nurses, doctors, medics, and caregivers who care for those in the field and during their arduous remaining years when they return home again.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ukena also thanked several members from various fourth degree assemblies, including: St. John Paul II (Des Moines)-3030, James G. Jordan (West Des Moines)-3031, Father William Thomas Cummings (Granger)-3378, and James L. Chambers (Altoona)-3379 for their support in helping to make this project a reality. He also thanked John Josephson of Ft. Dodge, who donated the rock, and the VA’s Recreational Therapist Kayla Sherwood, who Ukena says is his “hero”. Ukena was overwhelmed by the support and unity showed in the project’s completion. “This is a great example of people coming together for the common cause of making life better for our veterans.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The hospital hopes to finish the garden this coming summer. If you’re interested in making donations contact Ken Wiley at kenwiley515@gmail.com.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ttEVa7qzuufAd-HndnDuot6JzpWxf7CHEgW*5q9MpznRBylq757GB4z4Fwsaj5GGMYBK1DUbU-Q4CeFAs*vbXI5pbCA0h*be/IMG_0459.JPG" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/ttEVa7qzuufAd-HndnDuot6JzpWxf7CHEgW*5q9MpznRBylq757GB4z4Fwsaj5GGMYBK1DUbU-Q4CeFAs*vbXI5pbCA0h*be/IMG_0459.JPG?width=750" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>2018 State KC Bowling Tournament Registration Deadline is January 1st.tag:iowakofc.org,2017-12-30:6455245:BlogPost:1318062017-12-30T16:30:00.000ZPublicity Directorhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/PublicityChairman
<p><strong>2018 Iowa Knights of Columbus</strong> <strong>State Bowing Tournament</strong></p>
<p><strong><u>Feb, 24-25; March 3-4; March 10-11; March 17-18, 2018</u></strong></p>
<p>1301 1<sup>st</sup> Ave. East, Cascade Iowa 52033 Brother Knight's and GK's,</p>
<p>Cascade's St. Thomas Aquinas Council 930 will be hosting the 59<sup>th</sup> Annual KC State Bowling Tournament at the Cascade Lanes, 13011st Ave East, Cascade,IA 52033. Team shift will be on Saturday at 11am &amp; 2:30pm. Singles…</p>
<p><strong>2018 Iowa Knights of Columbus</strong> <strong>State Bowing Tournament</strong></p>
<p><strong><u>Feb, 24-25; March 3-4; March 10-11; March 17-18, 2018</u></strong></p>
<p>1301 1<sup>st</sup> Ave. East, Cascade Iowa 52033 Brother Knight's and GK's,</p>
<p>Cascade's St. Thomas Aquinas Council 930 will be hosting the 59<sup>th</sup> Annual KC State Bowling Tournament at the Cascade Lanes, 13011st Ave East, Cascade,IA 52033. Team shift will be on Saturday at 11am &amp; 2:30pm. Singles &amp; Doubles will be on Sunday at 8:30am &amp; 12:30pm.</p>
<p>KC Council 930 will host a Mass 6:15pm and meal at 7:00pm at the Columbus Club (across street) following team on Saturday, at 1402 Columbus Ave, Cascade Iowa.</p>
<p>Here is a <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/vkb1chl41arkhdb/Bowling%20Entry%20Form.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">link</a> to the 2018 entry form and list of hotels that have agreed to a discount rate listed under the Knights of Columbus.</p>
<p>We encourage your council to participate in the annual event. Get your bowlers together, young &amp; old and enjoy a great weekend of bowling and comradeship with other Brothers Knights from different parts of the state.</p>
<p><span>For more information contact </span>Terry Fischer, 2018 Tournament Chair. 563-599-1240.</p>HAVE A BEAR-Y MERRY CHRISTMAS!tag:iowakofc.org,2017-12-20:6455245:BlogPost:1312932017-12-20T12:46:18.000ZPublicity Directorhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/PublicityChairman
<p>The Knights of Columbus shout out a huge THANK YOU to the citizens of Onawa and the surrounding area for their generous out-pouring of charitable love that made for a successful Christmas Toy Drive!</p>
<p>New, unwrapped toys were donated over a four week period at locations that included Bomgaars, Dollar General, McCloy Chiropractic, Shopko, Stangel Pharmacy, and St. John (Onawa) and St. Bernard (Blencoe) churches.</p>
<p> The donations were presented to Brenda Howland, Director of West…</p>
<p>The Knights of Columbus shout out a huge THANK YOU to the citizens of Onawa and the surrounding area for their generous out-pouring of charitable love that made for a successful Christmas Toy Drive!</p>
<p>New, unwrapped toys were donated over a four week period at locations that included Bomgaars, Dollar General, McCloy Chiropractic, Shopko, Stangel Pharmacy, and St. John (Onawa) and St. Bernard (Blencoe) churches.</p>
<p> The donations were presented to Brenda Howland, Director of West Central Outreach Center in Onawa, for distribution to families who are economically less fortunate in Monona County. This effort goes a long way toward helping our friends and neighbors enjoy a merrier Christmas. </p>
<p> The Knights of Columbus Council #6249 helps keep Christ in Christmas by conducting the Monona County Toy Drive every year to supplement the charitable efforts of WCOC.</p>
<p>Photo: Brenda Howland, Knight Ken Wingert, Monica Kluver and Charissa Howland<a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/CDEH3Zg*LuVpQ2fg-XUJN63BtNlna4KLQs*ttOmBJs-kbthSUBbRxSlmdPME--Pmu-sYd*47o6eaolHAvaCCV9JiLYyXg5AF/BerryChristmas.jpg" target="_self"><br/><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/CDEH3Zg*LuVpQ2fg-XUJN63BtNlna4KLQs*ttOmBJs-kbthSUBbRxSlmdPME--Pmu-sYd*47o6eaolHAvaCCV9JiLYyXg5AF/BerryChristmas.jpg" width="610" class="align-left"/></a></p>Iowa Catholic Conference, Dec. 10, 2017tag:iowakofc.org,2017-12-11:6455245:BlogPost:1311832017-12-11T02:01:34.000ZTom Chapmanhttp://iowakofc.org/profile/TomChapman
<p>As often happens at the end of the year, Congress is addressing some important issues related to human life and dignity.</p>
<p>Many families affected by migration here in the United States need our support and action today. For example, since 2012, nearly 800,000 undocumented young people have passed background checks, paid a fee, and <strong>received permission to live and work in America</strong> through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Originally they were…</p>
<p>As often happens at the end of the year, Congress is addressing some important issues related to human life and dignity.</p>
<p>Many families affected by migration here in the United States need our support and action today. For example, since 2012, nearly 800,000 undocumented young people have passed background checks, paid a fee, and <strong>received permission to live and work in America</strong> through the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Originally they were brought to the U.S. as minors through no fault of their own. The DACA program is now being terminated by the administration.</p>
<p>As the Catholic bishops of Iowa said in their recent letter to Congress, “These young people entered the U.S. as children and know America as their only home. The dignity of every human being, particularly that of our children and youth, must be protected.”</p>
<p>The bishops believe it is both our moral duty and in our nation's best interest to protect them and help them reach their God-given potential. One way we can do that is to <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/55662/respond">enact the Dream Act</a>. These youths should not be forced to live in constant fear that they will be deported and separated from their families. </p>
<p>To help highlight the immigration issue, Bishop Richard Pates of Des Moines, the chair of the Iowa Catholic Conference board of directors, visited a detention center on Dec. 7. You can see <a href="http://www.facebook.com/iowacatholicconference">coverage of the event on our Facebook page</a>.</p>
<p>The bishops also support maintaining our leadership of the international humanitarian system by funding life-saving U.S. humanitarian assistance. More than 65 million people are forcibly displaced around the world, and more than 22 million are refugees. These are historically high levels.</p>
<p>You can help with both of these issues by sending a message to your members of Congress at <a href="https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/55662/respond">https://www.votervoice.net/ICC/campaigns/55662/respond</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Another priority of the U.S. Catholic bishops is the Conscience Protection Act.</strong> This bill will strengthen federal law that is already supposed to ensure that those who provide health care and health coverage can do so without being forced by government to help destroy unborn children. There is a chance that this legislation can be included in the year-end budget deal. Go to <a href="https://www.humanlifeaction.org/action-alert/urge-congress-enact-conscience-protection-act-2017">https://www.humanlifeaction.org/action-alert/urge-congress-enact-conscience-protection-act-2017</a> to send a message today.</p>
<p><strong>A priority of the current administration and leaders of Congress is to pass a tax reform package.</strong> As Congress prepares to reconcile the House of Representatives and Senate tax reform bills, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, insisted that “Congress should advance a final tax reform bill only if it meets the key moral concerns . . .”</p>
<p>“According to Congress’ own nonpartisan analysis, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act bills recently passed by the House and the Senate raise taxes on the poor and cut taxes on the rich, violating basic principles of justice,” wrote Bishop Dewane. “Congress has proposed a web of wide-ranging and complex changes to the tax code, yet is approaching the process at a pace that makes it difficult even for experts in the impacted areas to analyze effects.”</p>
<p>Bishop Dewane expressed support for proposals contained in both the House and Senate bills, such as doubling the Standard Deduction, expansion of 529 savings plans, increases for deductions for educator expenses, and the idea of expanding the child tax credit, though he urged a robust expansion that includes the refundable portions of the credit.</p>
<p>However, the bishop also highlighted serious problems that remain in one or both of the proposed bills: elimination of personal exemptions, repeal of the Affordable Care Act’s individual insurance mandate apart from broader health care reform, and failure to include changes that will protect against a steep drop in charitable giving, among others.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/federal-budget/upload/Tax-Conference-Letter-Congress-2017-12-06.pdf">Click here for a copy of Bishop Dewane’s letter</a>.</p>
<p>You can call Congress to let them know what you think about tax reform at (202) 224-3121. An action alert from the U.S. bishops on private school-specific concerns is at <a href="https://votervoice.net/USCCB/Campaigns/55533/Respond">https://votervoice.net/USCCB/Campaigns/55533/Respond</a>.</p>
<p>Thanks for taking time out during Advent to stand up for those who are vulnerable.</p>
<p><strong>Here in Iowa, the state legislature comes back into session on Jan. 8</strong>. This fall we have been working with legislators and other groups on several priorities identified by the bishops, including: </p>
<ul>
<li>Supporting an Education Savings Account program and enhancements to the Educational Opportunities Act/School Tuition Organization tax credit</li>
<li>Supporting final passage of Senate File 359, outlawing trafficking in fetal body parts</li>
<li>Supporting an increase in the state’s minimum wage</li>
<li>Opposing Senate File 481 related to the treatment of immigrants</li>
<li>Opposing the reinstatement of the death penalty</li>
</ul>
<p>You will be hearing more about these issues – and others that pop up - as the session progresses next year.</p>
<p>AND FINALLY,</p>
<p>The Iowa Secretary of State is mailing out Voter ID cards to those without a valid ID card from the DOT. <a href="https://sos.iowa.gov/news/2017_12_04.html">Click here for their news release and additional information</a>. This is important information for many citizens who don’t want to lose their ability to vote.</p>Dubough General Assembly held its Fourth degree memorial masstag:iowakofc.org,2017-12-07:6455245:BlogPost:1311062017-12-07T16:02:12.000ZKOC Council #5513http://iowakofc.org/profile/KOCCouncil5513
<p><span><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/DgJ4w7b4ZxHGZsWB2GnAeFdd9mMqBpRHOp2jOJkRDX7HP68ApqN76yRQ90VU3w*3Ti*YunrxGkAmj6VGVkS75ACQl3L9JWEi/24291510_511276999244483_8578163505757959307_o.jpg" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/DgJ4w7b4ZxHGZsWB2GnAeFdd9mMqBpRHOp2jOJkRDX7HP68ApqN76yRQ90VU3w*3Ti*YunrxGkAmj6VGVkS75ACQl3L9JWEi/24291510_511276999244483_8578163505757959307_o.jpg?width=750" width="750"></img></a> on Tuesday night on November 28, 2017 at the Basilica in Dyersville,…</span></p>
<p><span><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/DgJ4w7b4ZxHGZsWB2GnAeFdd9mMqBpRHOp2jOJkRDX7HP68ApqN76yRQ90VU3w*3Ti*YunrxGkAmj6VGVkS75ACQl3L9JWEi/24291510_511276999244483_8578163505757959307_o.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/DgJ4w7b4ZxHGZsWB2GnAeFdd9mMqBpRHOp2jOJkRDX7HP68ApqN76yRQ90VU3w*3Ti*YunrxGkAmj6VGVkS75ACQl3L9JWEi/24291510_511276999244483_8578163505757959307_o.jpg?width=750" width="750" class="align-full"/></a> on Tuesday night on November 28, 2017 at the Basilica in Dyersville, IA. </span></p>Fr. Schmitt Silver Star mass at Loras College December 7, 2017tag:iowakofc.org,2017-12-07:6455245:BlogPost:1313142017-12-07T15:56:16.000ZKOC Council #5513http://iowakofc.org/profile/KOCCouncil5513
<p><span>What an honor to pay our respects to Father Aloysius H. Schmitt. USN, Lieutenant, (junior grade) this morning at Loras College. Such a great mass with items from his last mass the morning of Pearl Harbor where he died.…</span><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/DgJ4w7b4ZxGNX8l7ssJfG3DWdzRMUPumMtSopyGK7HEs2OaOTFk0LBAJJOYkcwhN5DYa-G-*ydFShVDdJfnaeg-rdE87kpAv/24312749_514492205589629_7063262620229138720_n.jpg" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/DgJ4w7b4ZxGNX8l7ssJfG3DWdzRMUPumMtSopyGK7HEs2OaOTFk0LBAJJOYkcwhN5DYa-G-*ydFShVDdJfnaeg-rdE87kpAv/24312749_514492205589629_7063262620229138720_n.jpg?width=750" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p><span>What an honor to pay our respects to Father Aloysius H. Schmitt. USN, Lieutenant, (junior grade) this morning at Loras College. Such a great mass with items from his last mass the morning of Pearl Harbor where he died.</span><a href="http://api.ning.com:80/files/DgJ4w7b4ZxGNX8l7ssJfG3DWdzRMUPumMtSopyGK7HEs2OaOTFk0LBAJJOYkcwhN5DYa-G-*ydFShVDdJfnaeg-rdE87kpAv/24312749_514492205589629_7063262620229138720_n.jpg" target="_self"><img src="http://api.ning.com:80/files/DgJ4w7b4ZxGNX8l7ssJfG3DWdzRMUPumMtSopyGK7HEs2OaOTFk0LBAJJOYkcwhN5DYa-G-*ydFShVDdJfnaeg-rdE87kpAv/24312749_514492205589629_7063262620229138720_n.jpg?width=750" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>